You have a lot of things to think about when planning an elopement. Some of you plan them short term, and get in a rush, so they don’t see what mistakes they’re tripping in. There are some (easily avoidable) mistakes I see all over again, that I really want you to know about when it comes to a Dolomites elopement.
Visit The Dolomites During The Wrong Time
Well, I’m not sure whether there’s a WRONG time to visit the Dolomites. But it’s important to know that there are times of the year when the Dolomites are simply very tricky to navigate, and you better find local support, in order to make the best decisions for you.
We have season periods, and off-season, many restaurants, accommodations and shops are closed. This can be annoying for some people, while others will enjoy the quiet villages with absolutely no one else around. Same with mountain trails and easier walks – while during the season you will find more people, especially on easy walks, off-season is the best time to enjoy them on your own. This makes them perfect for an activity for your Dolomites elopement.
On the opposite side, there’s high or peak season. Especially in summer, there are a lot of people around, and you will experience very lively towns, shops and restaurants. But there are also more activities like guided tours and other cool events around our culture to experience. Always ask yourselves: How much life do we want to have around us for our elopement in the Dolomites?
Dolomites Elopement In Tourist Traps
This is the most common mistake ever – but also the most difficult to avoid.
As a local Dolomites elopement photographer, I highly recommend to chose other locations than the ones called “the best locations to elope in the Dolomites”. Basically, the locations everyone is telling you to visit for your Dolomites elopement, haha.
These are just the tip of the iceberg. The Dolomites are so much more than the 10 usual locations.
Unfortunately, we’re experiencing serious over-tourism issues during peak season in most of the famous locations of the Dolomites – so don’t be the average tourist. Be part of the solution, instead of part of the problem.
Not Being Prepared For Seasons, Climate & Weather In The Dolomites
I see quite some times that people don’t know about our seasons and how the weather works in the mountains. This can lead to some disappointments.
While the Dolomites are the sunniest region of the Alps, in summer, you can get caught in evening storms, and in early June you might still find snow on higher trails. Or in Mid-October you can get surprised with snowfalls in the morning of your Dolomites elopement.
I get that you’re probably coming from the opposite side of the world, and you might have a totally different climate where you live. That’s why not knowing what trails are accessible, or also not knowing what the landscapes look like in each season, can turn out in disappointments.
Plan Too Many Things To Do On Your Dolomites Elopement
You’re so excited about your Dolomites elopement, that you want to do a thousand things in one day. I see this so often. But if you’re coming from so far away to celebrate your love in our dramatic Dolomites landscapes, please take the time to enjoy them, instead of rushing from one location to the next.
Slow down, chose what most excites you, and then enjoy it.
Many times I have to readdress my clients and make them choose the slow way of enjoying the mountains. And also, take a few days to discover our beauties after your Dolomites elopement. Or even better, make more days part of your wedding – I offer multi-day elopement packages!
Plan Too Strenuous Activities For Your Dolomites Elopement
While hiking on your Dolomites elopement can be a fun and enjoyable activity, you should never underestimate them.
Especially if you’re not in good shape, or you might have health conditions that could get in your way while hiking or doing any other demanding activity.
There are many very easy hikes with wonderful views that you can do. I’m also not THE hiker and don’t have the best condition to hike for hours, even if I’m local. And that’s why I know about many non-sweat activities and locations that my clients can take advantage of.
Bonus one: Not Working Together With Locals for your Dolomites Elopement
While many non-local people would rip off their arms to work here in the Dolomites (and can still be awesome vendors), you always have a few perks more working with local vendors for your elopement in the Dolomites. These can be contacts, hidden locations, tailored suggestions and fast plan B creations.
Want to know more about how working with me can help you elevate your Dolomites elopement? Click here to know more about the tailored experience.